England Tops Group C At Euro 2024 Despite Goalless Draw With Slovenia

England topped Group C at Euro 2024 but failed to impress in their goalless draw with Slovenia in Cologne. The Three Lions struggled to find the net, with Bukayo Saka's disallowed first-half goal being their only notable moment. Substitute Cole Palmer injected some energy, but England couldn't secure a winning goal, finishing with five points from three group games.

Despite the draw, England avoided a last-16 tie against hosts Germany due to Serbia's goalless draw with Denmark. Slovenia, under Matjaz Kek, made history by reaching the knockout stages for the first time at a major tournament. England's hopes for a quick start were dashed as Slovenia's Benjamin Sesko had the first effort on goal, comfortably saved by Jordan Pickford.

England's front three of Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden managed just two shots on target between them. They also had only nine touches inside Slovenia's penalty area. Jude Bellingham, who scored 23 goals for Real Madrid this season, was not at his best. He completed 86% of his 57 passes, the second-lowest among England's midfielders behind Conor Gallagher (85%).

Kieran Trippier almost created an opening goal with a teasing delivery that evaded both Gallagher and Kane in the penalty area. John Stones nearly marked his 75th England appearance with a goal but saw his header cleared off the line. Marc Guehi couldn't keep the loose ball alive.

Slovenia proved to be resilient opponents throughout Group C and earned their place in the knockout stages. They are now undefeated in their last four games in the Euros, their longest unbeaten streak since at least 1992. Slovenia have not lost in their last nine matches across all competitions (W4 D5), matching their longest unbeaten run from September 2020 to March 2021.

The introduction of Kobbie Mainoo for Gallagher at half-time aimed to add some attacking impetus. His presence instantly sparked some pace into England's midfield. Declan Rice flashed an effort wide of Jan Oblak's goal, and substitute Palmer saw his shot repelled by Slovenia’s goalkeeper.

England thought they had taken the lead when Saka finished off a slick attacking move, only for it to be ruled out for offside. The full-time whistle was met with frustration from travelling England fans as Slovenia celebrated their remarkable achievement.

"Another point on the board. Next up: the #EURO2024 last 16!" tweeted @England on June 25, 2024.

Despite not winning any games at Euro 2024, Slovenia showed they could compete with Group C’s teams and deservedly advanced. It remains uncertain who they will face next, but they can take pride in their international success.

The result confirmed Croatia’s elimination from the tournament. England supporters were left frustrated by another lacklustre performance as Southgate’s side failed to dazzle yet again.

With high expectations from England’s attacking options, it was another underwhelming display overall. Improvements will be necessary regardless of who they face in the last-16 round.